I have been extremely fortunate over my golfing life. I have played some wonderful private courses, and traveled all over the world with a very understanding wife to some of golf’s greatest meccas.

As the designated trip planner amongst my golfing buddies, I am the one who has to wrangle the cats, coordinate the group, and get everyone to commit and throw down that deposit. If you’re that guy in your group of friends - you know what I’m talking about. We know that if we don’t do it - it won’t get done…..and the group won’t make it to that spectacular golf kingdom you’ve heard so much about. I’ve had as few as two, and as many as 16 guys on these trips - and each one created memories that last til this day.

Although I haven’t been everywhere, and there are still some great places on the bucket list - I have been on a few amazing trips. This week we dig into some of our favorite destinations for that buddies trip. We are not attempting to rank anything here - they all have their place in your travels. But - if I had only 3 trips left in a lifetime, they would include Scotland, Ireland, and Bandon.

The Ultimate Buddies Golf Trip Destinations

First off - this is not an exhaustive list of all the best golf resorts for buddies trips - just the favorites that I’ve been to personally. I hope to continue adding and sorting - but for now, these are the ones I would firmly recommend if you have the opportunity.

I’ve also included trips that range from the ridiculously expensive (Scotland/Ireland) to the more budget-friendly Myrtle (which is a great starter buddies trip in the younger days).

1. Scotland: The Birthplace of Golf

   • Experience: To me this is the pinnacle. The Everest of golf. While I think Ireland has some better courses (hello Royal County Down), the mystical experience of walking the fairways where golf started, where the Open Championship is played, and where golf is a way of life and a right….is special beyond words. If you ever have the chance, go. Whether a budget-conscious excursion, or a high-end tailored epic trip - it’s all worth it. If you don’t mind paying for the trip of a lifetime - start here with Perry Golf.

   • Courses: The list is endless here - so many options - and almost all are good. I’ve played The Old Course at St. Andrews, Turnberry, Carnoustie, Nairn, and Royal Dornoch. This summer I will add Kingsbarns, Castle Stuart (Cabot Highlands), Muirfield and North Berwick to that list.

   • Accommodations: Stay in charming Scottish lodges and immerse yourself in the rich golf history. Again - anything from budget-friendly hotels to the Rusacks and the the Old Course Hotel - there are a myriad of options depending on your bank account.

   • What Makes It Special: Experience the authenticity of playing on the hallowed grounds where the game originated. There is simply nothing like the magic of golf in the Kingdom.

2. Ireland: Where the Greens Meet the Ocean

   • Experience: The courses, the people, the scenery - are all magnificent. The weather and the food…..not so much. But the caliber of golf makes it all worthwhile.

   • Courses: Royal County Down, Lahinch Golf Club, Ballybunion Golf Club, Royal Portrush, The European Club, Portmarnock Golf Club. There are so many to choose from, and you can customize your trip to areas of the country and what your finances can afford.

   • Accommodations: Choose cozy inns with stunning views of Ireland's picturesque landscapes, or ridiculous castles like Adare Manor.

   • What Makes It Special: Breathtaking coastal courses and warm Irish hospitality await you and your buddies.

3. Bandon Dunes, Oregon: A Golfer's Paradise

   • Experience: As a diehard fan of links golf, there is no better place in the US that exemplifies the ground game like Bandon. It’s a place that pulls you back again and again. My first trip there was in 1999 when they offered one very talked about course in the middle of nowhere. Now they have 5+ courses in the middle of nowhere - but getting there is part of the charm. I could go on ad nauseam about the resort (been there on 9 buddies trips) - but I’m sure you’ve heard it all before. And if you haven’t been, please do yourself a favor and make it happen.

   • Courses: Bandon Dunes, Pacific Dunes, Bandon Trails, Old Macdonald, Sheep Ranch, The Preserve…and more on the way like Shorty’s.

   • Accommodations: Very nice, but basic and somewhat rustic. I’ve stayed in all of them and they all satisfy the need for a warm bed after walking 36/day.

   • What Makes It Special: With rugged coastal scenery and world-class courses, Bandon Dunes is a golfer's haven. My ashes will be spread on Pacific Dunes someday…

4. Kohler, Wisconsin: Unparalleled Elegance

   • Experience: A man-made miracle from Pete Dye - Kohler (and nearby Erin Hills) are worth the trek. Great courses, a solid location in the center of the country, relatively easy access - it all sets up well for a group of guys. And with Major Championship history at Whistling Straits and Erin Hills, it’s a fun destination to check off the list.

   • Courses: Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run, Erin Hills.

   • Accommodations: Indulge in the luxury of The American Club.

   • What Makes It Special: Championship courses paired with upscale amenities for a refined golf retreat.

5. Banff, Canada: Golf in the Rockies

   • Experience: Now here is one that would typically not come to mind immediately when thinking of great golf destinations for a buddies trip. However - if your trip is in the summer, and you like mountain golf, Banff is an incredible location with world-class courses. Having lived most of my golfing life in warm to hot locales, I always prefer a summer golf trip that gets me out of the heat - and Banff weather in the summer is pristine.

   • Courses: Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course, Stewart Creek Golf & Country Club, Kananaskis, Jasper Park Lodge and several others.

   • Accommodations: Stay in the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Jasper Park Lodge, or other options easier on the wallet.

   • What Makes It Special: Majestic mountain views combined with challenging courses make Banff an exceptional destination.

6. Pebble Beach, California: Coastal Elegance

   • Experience: Controversial take here….I’m not a huge fan of Pebble. 6 of the greatest holes in the world, 6 decent holes, and 6 that could be on any local muni anywhere. A lot of hustle and bustle at the resort, houses everywhere, ridiculous pricing, etc. However, it is Pebble - and just about every golf dreams of checking it off the list. Not many cheap options here if you want t-times.

   • Courses: Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, and Spanish Bay.

   • Accommodations: The Lodge at Pebble Beach offers a luxurious stay - and as long as you’re willing to sell your firstborn child it could all be yours.

   • What Makes It Special: World-renowned courses overlooking the Pacific Ocean create a golf experience like no other. And if you’re lucky, Jim Nantz will stroll by drinking his morning coffee and give you a, “Hello friends…” right before he calls your tee shot.

7. Arcadia, Michigan: Hidden Gem in the Midwest

   • Experience: A very pleasant surprise up in Michigan. Michigan is known for some very good golf and top-tier resorts - and this one is at or near the top of the list. And check out Traverse City wine country while there - it will not disappoint.

   • Courses: Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club, Arcadia South course, and Crystal Downs Country Club.

   • Accommodations: The lodge is great and has magnificent views of the course and the lake.

   • What Makes It Special: Tranquil landscapes and challenging courses make Arcadia a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts.

8. Whistler, British Columbia: Golf in the Mountains

   • Courses: Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club and Nicklaus North Golf Course.

   • Accommodations: Enjoy the charm of Whistler Village.

   • What Makes It Special: Play golf surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, and enjoy the vibrant village atmosphere.

9. The Broadmoor, Colorado: Mile-High Mountain Golf

   • Courses: Broadmoor East & West.

   • Accommodations: High-end hotel and resort.

   • What Makes It Special: The courses are great, the scenery is spectacular, and there is plenty to do beyond the course. Unfortunately the Mountain Course (which was my favorite course at The Broadmoor) has permanently closed due to some crazy erosion issues.

10. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Golf and Entertainment Hub

    • Courses: TPC Myrtle Beach, Barefoot Resort, and True Blue Golf Plantation.

    • Accommodations: Explore a mix of resorts and beachfront condos.

    • What Makes It Special: A vibrant nightlife scene complements a variety of golf courses, making Myrtle Beach perfect for both golf and entertainment.

It’s tough to go wrong with any of these options, and there are many more that we hope to review as we get to them. Whether it's the historic links of Scotland or the coastal elegance of Pebble Beach, each location offers a unique golfing experience that you and your friends will cherish.

While I love the high-end trips like Scotland, Ireland and even Bandon sometimes - the most important thing is to just go somewhere with your friends and relatives for that buddies trip. Some of the most memorable trips I’ve had were some of the cheapest - because one of your playing partners did something that everyone still talks about to this day. It’s about the experience. Research it, book it, and enjoy it - life is short.

And for the record - Sand Valley, Cabot Cliffs, Streamsong and a few others are on the planning schedule.

Navigating the Greens: Unveiling the Top Pet Peeves on the Golf Course

Golf, often considered a gentleman's game, offers a serene escape into meticulously manicured landscapes. However, even the most peaceful golf courses can become arenas for frustration due to a myriad of pet peeves and annoyances. In this newsletter article, we'll explore some of the biggest sources of vexation on the golf course that can turn an otherwise enjoyable day into a test of patience. You know….the stuff that drives you batshit crazy on the course…

1. Slow Play: One of the most universally acknowledged pet peeves in golf is slow play. Whether it's a result of indecision, excessive practice swings, or delayed decision-making on the green, slow play can turn a leisurely round into a test of endurance. Golfers aspire for a steady pace, and when that rhythm is disrupted, frustration ensues. HIT THE FREAKING BALL ALREADY!!!

2. Unrepaired Divots and Ball Marks: Respecting the course is a fundamental aspect of golf etiquette. Few things irk golfers more than encountering unrepaired divots and neglected ball marks on the green. The effort required to fix these imperfections is minimal, yet their impact on the course's condition and playability is significant. Golfers share a collective responsibility to maintain the course for everyone's enjoyment. As a member of a club, I am absolutely shocked at how many members have zero regard for others - they don’t repair divots or ball marks….truly amazing.

3. Loud Distractions: Golf is a sport that demands focus and concentration. The last thing any golfer wants is to be disrupted by loud conversations, ringing cell phones, or music blaring from nearby groups. A golf course is a sanctuary for peace and concentration, and disturbances can quickly become major annoyances. While I’m not opposed at all to music on the golf course - and have it on most of the time…I must say I’m not a fan of the dudes who roll all over the course with the music blasting SOOO loud you can hear it 2 fairways over. And it’s always country….

4. Wayward Golf Balls: While errant shots are an inevitable part of the game, constantly dodging wayward golf balls from other players can be exasperating. Safety concerns aside, constantly having to be on the lookout for incoming balls can disrupt the flow of the game and detract from the enjoyment of the round. We all know this happens - to everyone. No big deal really - just yell FORE!

5. Inconsiderate Golfers: Golf is a social game, and courteous behavior is key to a positive experience on the course. Inconsiderate golfers who disregard basic etiquette, such as talking loudly during someone's swing or not yielding the right of way, can turn a day on the greens into a frustrating ordeal. I must confess, I have a hard time blocking out distractions. So getting paired with the twosome that talks non-stop, even while someone else is swinging, drives me nuts.

6. Overcrowded Courses: While the popularity of golf is a positive, overcrowded courses can lead to prolonged rounds and heightened frustration. Booking tee times too close together or failing to manage course traffic effectively can compromise the quality of the golfing experience for everyone. This is the #1 reason I joined a club - just for the sake of t-times.

7. Poor Course Maintenance: A well-maintained course is essential for an enjoyable game of golf. Poorly kept fairways, inconsistent greens, and unkempt bunkers can significantly detract from the overall experience. Golfers appreciate the effort that goes into maintaining a course and expect a certain level of quality.

Despite its reputation for being a relaxing and leisurely pursuit, golf can be a source of frustration when certain pet peeves and annoyances come into play. However, understanding and adhering to proper golf etiquette, maintaining the course, and promoting a sense of camaraderie can contribute to a more enjoyable experience for everyone on the greens. As we continue to appreciate the beauty of the game, let's strive to minimize these annoyances and ensure that every round of golf is a pleasurable escape into the world of fairways and birdies.

Remember folks - you are not the only one using the course - be courteous of others, and let’s all enjoy our time out there!